Welcome to Greek language lesson no. 11, “TAXI Greece: How to Speak to Drivers + Tips,” where you get empowered to navigate the bustling streets of Greece with confidence and ease.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Greece, mastering essential Greek phrases for taxi interactions is extremely useful for a smooth journey. Here we delve into practical vocabulary and expressions that will help you communicate with taxi drivers in Greece, ensuring that you reach your destination without a hitch.
Understanding how to communicate with Greek taxi drivers not only enhances your travel experience but also allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. We’ll cover key phrases for hailing a taxi, providing directions, and even negotiating fares — all crucial skills for any traveler.
With our focus on conversational Greek, you’ll learn how to confidently ask about the price, communicate your location, and understand the common ways Greek taxi drivers say things.
Additionally, we’ll provide valuable tips for navigating the Greek taxi system, including insights on best practices for catching a taxi, understanding taxi meters, and other useful taxi tips for visitors to Greece. These practical nuggets will transform your taxi rides into delightful experiences rather than mere transportation.
By the end of this Greek taxi lesson, you’ll not only be equipped with essential Greek phrases but also feel empowered to engage with locals and truly experience the beauty of Greece. So, the next time you have the chance of hopping inside a taxi in Greece, practice your Greek, and see what happens when you speak Greek to taxi drivers.
In this Greek lesson, just like the other “How to Speak Greek” lessons on this website, all you need to do is pronounce the words in blue and red text as they sound in English. With this simple approach, you’ll be conversing confidently with Greek taxi drivers in no time!
How to Speak Greek to Taxi Drivers in Greece
The Greek word for “taxi” closely resembles its English counterpart in pronunciation.
Taxi
Tax-i
Tak-si
In Greek, the phrase “taxi driver” is structured with “driver” preceding “taxi.”
Taxi Driver
Or-thi-gors, Tax-i
Orth-ee-gorz, Tak-si
car
arf-tor-kin-i-tor
arf-tor-kini-tor
When riding in a taxi, the taxi meter is what many people keep their eye on. In Greek, the term for taxi meter is as follows:
Taxi Meter
Taxi Met-ror
Tak-si Met-ro
How to ask for a Taxi
At some point, you or a companion may want to request a taxi. Here’s how to do that:
I’d like, a, Taxi, please
Tha ith-ela, ena, Taxi, par-rar-ka-lo
Tha ith-el-la, en-nar, Tax-i, para-ka-lor
We would like, a, Taxi
Tha thel-arm-meh, ena, Taxi
Tha thel-larm-meh, en-na, Tak-si
Can you call, a Taxi, for me
Bor-rees na kar-le-sis, ena Taxi, yia mena
Bor-rees na karl-e-sees, ena Tak-si, yee-a mena
Boreis Na Kalesees Ena Taxi Gia Mena? It’s probably all you need to know. How to ask for a taxi: Use the word call (Kalesees) instead of arrange (Kanonisees). In Greece we only use the “call a taxi” variation. The “arrange” sounds odd, according to George.
Can you call, a Taxi, for us, please
Bor-rees na kar-le-sis, ena Taxi, yia em-ars, par-ra-kalo
Bor-ees na karl-e-sees, ena Tax-i, yee-a em-mars, par-ra-karl-or
Greek Taxi Driver Greetings
Here are a few common ways to greet a taxi driver. If you’d like to learn more greeting phrases, be sure to check out Greek lesson 1: Greek Greetings, where you’ll find comprehensive information on how to greet others in Greek.
Hi
Ya
Yah
“Ya” is a common Greek greeting that can be used at any time of day. However, if you wish to be more formal—especially when addressing someone who may be over the age of 70 — it’s probably beneficial if you use the respectful greeting “Ya-sas.”
Good Morning / Good Evening
Kali-mera / Kali-spera
Karli-meh-ra / Karli-spe-ra
You can also say “Kalimera” or “Kalispera,” depending on the time of day. These greetings are widely used across Greece, with both taxi drivers and passengers often exchanging them.
General Questions to ask a Greek Taxi Driver
When you first spot a taxi, it’s a good idea to ask the driver if he is available. You may also have some general questions you’d like to ask. Here’s how to phrase those inquiries in Greek.
Are you available?
Ee-seh thee-arth-esi-mos
Ee-se thee-ar-thess-ee-mos
Are you free?
Ee-seh elef-ther-i
I-se el-ef-ther-i
Asking Greek Taxi Drivers for the Price (Cost)
How much will it cost?
Por-sor tha korst-iss-see
Po-sor thar kost-ee-sei
How much will it cost to go to…?
Por-sor tha kost-i-see na paei
Po-sor thar kost-ee-see na pay-ee
Can you give me a, fixed price?
Na moo DOH-sees Mee-ah, Stah-THE-reh TEE-mee
Nah mou doh-sees mia, Stah-THE-reh timi
The phrase “Na Mou Dosees Mia Statheri Timi” in Greek translates to “Can you give me a fixed price?” in English. It is a request for a specific or stable price for something.
Useful Greek Taxi Meter Talk
I want you to use the, meter
Thel-lor na kris-morfo-poi-i-set-eh tor, met-riti
Thel-lor na chrisi-morfo-poi-i-set-eh tor, met-riti
Can you put the meter on?
Bor-reez na varl-ees ton met-riti
Bor-rees na var-lees ton met-rit-i
How to ask how long the taxi ride will take in Greek
How long will the ride take?
Por-sor tha thee-arr-kis i thee-arth-rom-ee
Por-sor tha thee-arr-kiss i thee-arr-thro-mee
Typical Greek Taxi Driver Questions
At some point, the Greek taxi driver may ask questions such as the following.
Where can I take you?
Pou na seh pow
Pouh nah seh pow
Where would you like to go?
Pou tha ith-el-as nar-pus
Pooh tha ith-e-las na-pus
Where are you going?
Pou part-eh
Pooh par-teh
Where are you staying?
Pou men-ees
Pooh men-ees
Which hotel are you staying at?
Seh pyor xe-noth-o-hee-or men-et-eh
Se poio xe-noth-o-hee-o men-et-teh
Greek Taxi Driver: Questions about your Address
If you’re headed to a location that isn’t widely recognized, the Greek taxi driver will likely ask for the address of your destination.
What is, the, address?
Poy-ah ee-neh, ee, thef-thin-see
Poi-a een-neh, i, thi-ef-thin-si
Note: Often written as “Poia Einai I Diefthinsi” Not “Ti Einai”
Do you have, the, address?
Eh-khees, ti, thef-thyn-si
Eh-khees, ti, thi-ef-thin-si
Which suburb?
Pyor pror-arst-io
Poio pror-arst-ee-or
What, street, is it on?
Seh pyon, DRO-mo, een-neh
Se poi-on, dror-mo, een-ne
I asked George to tell me the most common word for street. The most common word for street is dromos. You can use the word odos, which comes straight from ancient Greece. Odos (or Othos) is used only when somebody asks for a specific street: Se Poia Odo Vriskete Afto to Magazi? / In which street this shop is located? In general, dromos is the way to go. If it’s too confusing, keep always the Dromos word. Odos is rarely used.
I asked Deep AI (Artificial Intelligence) a couple of questions about this. How to say “What street is it on?” in Greek? In Greek, you would say “Σε ποια οδό είναι;” (pronounced: Se pia odo einai?). How do you pronounce it in English? In English phonetics, “Σε ποια οδό είναι;” can be pronounced as “Se pya o-THO ee-neh?” where “o-THO” has a soft “th” sound, similar to the word “the.”
Use the other word for street “dromos” in this sentence instead of “odo.” Using “dromos” instead of “odo,” you would say: “Σε ποιον δρόμο είναι;” (pronounced: “Se pyon DRO-mo ee-neh?”).
How to Speak to Greek Taxi Drivers about Destinations
Here are some essential phrases commonly used when instructing a Greek taxi driver to take you and your companions to a destination. Keep these in mind:
Take me to…
Pee-GHEH-neh meh
Pee-GHEH-ne meh
George’s advice: Take me to: We say “Pigaine Me” not “Pare Me”. So all the take me variations should me “Pigaine Me” (Appears in take me to the hotel too). Note: In English, “Pigaine Me” can be phonetically pronounced as “pee-GHEH-neh meh.” The emphasis is typically on the second syllable of “Pigaine.”
I asked George for further clarification on this as “Pare Me” is often used on other websites and YouTube videos. George’s reply: Well, “Pare me”, especially on a taxi, will definitely raise some eyebrows 🙂 “Pare me at the airport” or any other place is like a sexual invitation. “Pigaine Me” is the way to go. But if you want, you can also say “Pigaino” (I go) or “Pigainoume” (We go). This is more easy and definitely what you will hear often. I can’t actually think of any way to use “Pare Me” without being a sexual invite. You might hear “Pare Mu a packet of cigarettes/newspaper/any object” when you ask someone going to the supermarket/store to buy something for you. But “Pare me” I’d say it’s a no-go. Of course, a taxi driver will understand that a tourist can’t speak proper Greek, but then again, it depends on the taxi driver if he replies something like “My pleasure” or “It’s my lucky day” or anything less appropriate 🙂
Take us to…
Na mus pai-e stor…
Nuh mus pai-e stor…
I asked George for more clarification about “Take us to…” because initially I had used “Na mus pai-e stor…” But it didn’t seem right since it sounded quite a bit different to “Pigaine Me” or even “Pare Me.” George stated: “Na Mas Paei Sto…” is correct. “Paei” derives from “Pigaino”, it’s another version of it. It’s the imperative form, so it sounds a bit unpolite. You can use it. I’d stick to “Pigaino” or “Pigainoume” (or even “Pame” as a more informal plural version) for ease. “Pame” is also used as “Let’s go” in Greek. You can use it to say to friends “it’s time to leave, let’s go” or to encourage someone or a team on a task or a match game. Pretty much the same like in English.
I want to go to…
Thel-lor na pao stor…
Thel-or nuh pa-or stor…
We want to go to…
Thel-loum-meh na parm-meh stor…
Thel-oom-me na parm-e stoh…
I’m going to…
Pao stor…
Pa-or stor…
We are going to…
Parm-me stor…
Parm-meh stor…
How to ask a Greek Taxi Driver to take you to your Hotel
Upon arriving at the airport and securing a taxi, one of the first things you might want to communicate as a tourist is your desired destination — your hotel in Athens. For this example, let’s say you wish to go to the Athens Gate Hotel.
Take me, to the, Athens, Gate, Hotel
Pee-GHEH-neh meh, stor, Ath-in-a, Pili, x-en-oth-or-hee-or
Pee-GHEH-ne meh, stor, Athina, Pi-li, x-eneth-o-hio
I am staying at, Athens Gate, Hotel. Take me there.
Meno stor, Ath-in-a Pili, x-en-oth-or-hee-or. Pee-GHEH-neh meh ek-ee.
Men-or stor, Athin-a Pi-li x-eneth-o-hio. Pee-GHEH-ne meh e-kee
How to ask a Greek Taxi Driver to take you to the Airport
Taking a taxi to the airport is a common necessity for many travelers. Here’s how to effectively tell the driver to take you to the airport.
Take me, to the, Airport
Pee-GHEH-neh meh, stor, a-air-ror-thror-mio
Pee-GHEH-ne meh, sto, a-eror-throrm-ee-or
How to ask a Greek Taxi Driver to take you to Piraeus Port
Piraeus Port is the largest and busiest port in Athens, serving as the primary gateway for ferries heading to the enchanting Greek islands. It plays a crucial role in connecting the mainland to popular island destinations such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.
With its bustling terminals and various services, Piraeus Port not only facilitates passenger travel but also supports freight transportation, making it an essential hub for both tourism and trade in Greece. Whether you’re embarking on a leisurely getaway or transporting goods, Piraeus Port is a bustling epicenter of maritime activity.
I want to go to, Piraeus
Thel-lor na pao stor, Pir-e-os
Thel-lor nuh pa-or stor, Pi-re-os
How to ask a Greek Taxi Driver to take you to the Bus Station
Take me, to the, Bus Station
Pee-GHEH-neh meh, stor, starth-mor le-or-for-ee-on
Pee-GHEH-neh meh stor, starth-mo le-o-for-ee-on
How to ask a Greek Taxi Driver to take you to the Train Station
Take me, to the, Train, Station
Pee-GHEH-neh meh, stor, sithi-roth-ror-miko starth-mor
Pee-GHEH-ne meh, stor, sithi-roth-rorm-eek-or starth-mor
How to ask a Greek Taxi Driver to take you to the Acropolis Museum
The world-renowned Acropolis Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Athens.
Take me, to the, Acropolis Museum
Pee-GHEH-neh meh, stor, mou-see-or tis Ark-ror-porl-is
Pee-GHEH-ne meh, stor, mou-see-or tis Ar-krorp-orl-iss
How to ask a Greek Taxi Driver to take you to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounio
When you’re in Athens, a delightful day trip is to visit the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio. Here’s how to ask your taxi driver in Greek to take you there.
Take me, to the, Temple of Poseidon, at Cape Sounio
Pee-GHEH-neh meh, stor, now-os tou Pors-ee-dorna, stor akror-tir-ior Sou-nio
Pee-GHEH-neh me, stor, na-ors tuh Por-see-dor-na, stor Ak-ror-tir-ee-or Soun-io
How to ask a Greek Taxi Driver to take you to the beach
If you are fond of the beach, you may also want to learn about Greek beach vocabulary in this Greek lesson.
I want to go to the, beach
Thel-lor na pa-or stin, par-ra-lia
Thel-or na pao stin, pa-ra-lee-a
Greek words associated with Luggage
When learning how to speak Greek, particularly for interactions with taxi drivers in Greece, it’s important to familiarize yourself with key vocabulary related to travel and luggage. Being able to communicate about your belongings will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. For instance, knowing how to say “luggage,” “suitcase,” and “bag” in Greek can be extremely helpful.
luggage
ar-por-ske-ves
arp-or-ske-vez
suitcase / suitcases
var-lits-a /
varl-its-ar
bag / bags
tsar-da / sar-cou-les
tsa-dar / sar-couh-lez
I’ve got it
Tor eh-hor
Tor eh-ho
I’ll take this, bag, with me in the, car
Tha paro afti tin, tsa-dar, mar-zi mou stor, arf-tor-kini-tor
Thar par-o aft-i tin, tsa-da, marz-i mou stor, arf-tor-kini-tor
This can go in the, boot
Arf-tor bor-ree na bee sti, borta
Aft-tor bo-ree na bee sti, bor-tar
Greek Taxi: Money and Receipt Talk
After your taxi ride to your destination, the conversation will likely shift to the topic of payment. Being prepared with a few essential phrases can help ensure a smooth transaction and enhance your overall experience. Here are some common taxi-related phrases in Greek that are worth knowing:
card, or, cash?
karr-ta, i, meh-trit-a
karr-tar, i, met-rit-ta
Will you be paying by, card or cash?
Tha, pli-roh-set-e meh, karr-ta i meh-trit-a
Tha pli-row-set-eh meh, karr-ta i met-rit-ta
Would you like a receipt?
Thar thel-art-e, mia, a-porth-exi
Tha thel-lart-eh mya ar-porth-ex-i
Can I have a receipt
Bor-ror na eh-hor a-porth-exi
Bor-ror na ar-porth-ex-i
You have change?
EH-khees RES-tah
Eh-khees resta
Keep the change
Krar-teest-e tar resta
Kra-tis-teh ta rest-a
How to talk to a Taxi Service Operator on the Phone
If you’d like to book a taxi ride over the phone while in Greece, having a few key phrases ready can make the process easier and more efficient. Here’s what you might want to say during the conversation:
I would like a Taxi, please
Tha ith-ela ena Taxi, par-ra-kalo
Tha ith-el-la en-ar Tak-si, par-ra-karl-or
I would like to book a Taxi, please
Tha ith-el-la na klee-sor ena Tax-i, par-ra-kalo
Tha ithela nuh klee-sor ena, par-ra-karl-or
Here’s how to tell the taxi service operator your location.
I am staying at…
Men-or stor
Men-or stor
If your pick-up location isn’t well-known, you’ll need to provide the specific address to the taxi driver. While you might not know how to say the address in Greek, here’s a simple approach to help you communicate effectively:
The address is…
Ih thi-ef-thin-si ee-neh…
Ih thih-ef-thyn-si ee-neh…
You’ll also need to inform the taxi service of your destination. A common location many people travel to is the airport. Here’s how to communicate that:
I am going to the Airport
Pao stor e-rorth-rorm-ee-o
Pow stor aer-orth-ro-mio
Here’s how to introduce yourself and share your name and phone number:
My name is …
Meh len-eh
Meh le-ne
My phone number is …
Or arith-mors ti-le-forn-ou mou in-ne
Or a-rith-mors til-e-forn-oo mu een-ne
Here are some useful direction commands you can use when communicating with a Greek taxi driver:
stop here
Starma-tist-e eth-or
Star-ma-tist-eh etho
Stop when you can. I’ll get off here.
Starma-tist-e or-tan bor-reet-e. Tha kart-ev-or eth-or
Star-ma-tist-eh ort-an bor-reet-eh. Thar kart-ev-or eth-o
stop over there
Starma-tist-e ek-ee
Sta-m-tist-eh ek-ei
turn, left, at the next, street
strip-ste, arist-er-a, ston epom-en-or, thror-mor
strip-steh, a-ris-te-ra, ston epom-en-or, throrm-or
Two words for street: throrm-os and also or-thos
turn, right, at the next street
strip-ste, thek-si-a, ston epom-en-or thror-mor
strip-steh, thek-si-a, ston epom-en-or, thror-mor
Two words for street: Throrm-os and also or-thos
Greek Taxi Tips for Your Travels in Greece
With these helpful tips at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the taxi scene in Athens like a pro. We hope these insights enhance your travels throughout Greece, ensuring that your taxi rides are smooth and your experiences are enjoyable! Safe travels!
Here are some essential taxi tips for Greece that you may find beneficial as you explore this beautiful country:
Learn some basic Greek Greetings
While many drivers understand English, knowing a few basic Greek phrases like “Kalimera” (Good Morning) or “Efharisto” (Thank You) can create a friendlier atmosphere and may even earn you some local tips.
Cash is King (Mostly)
Although many taxis accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash (Euros) for smaller rides or if the terminal is malfunctioning.
Keep small change handy as taxi drivers may not always have change for larger bills, so it’s a good idea to carry small denominations for smoother transactions..
Make sure to request that the driver accepts card payment before loading your bags!
Know the Fare Structure / Meter
Familiarize yourself with Athens’ taxi fare system. The starting fare (initial charge) may vary depending on the time of day (night rates are higher). The more you know, the less likely you are to be taken for a ride!
Additional fees may also apply for holidays, or extra luggage, so it may be worthwhile to inquire beforehand.
Always ensure that the meter is running once you start your journey. If the driver does not start the meter or quotes you a fare, kindly request them to do so.
As you navigate the taxi system in Greece, pay attention to the meter. Look for the number displayed on the left side. If you see a “1,” it indicates the standard fare. However, if the number shows “2,” that means you’re being charged double; this typically occurs after midnight or during specific circumstances. If you notice the “2,” politely ask the driver to switch the meter back to “1.” This simple awareness can help ensure you’re paying the correct fare during your ride.
Use Apps Like a Local
Embrace technology and download ride-hailing apps like Beat or Uber — these are widely used in Athens. They allow you to avoid language barriers and track your ride effortlessly from your smartphone. However, these Apps most likely won’t work on the Greek islands.
Uber in Athens
Uber operates in Athens, specifically with licensed taxis. One advantage of using Uber is that drivers can’t provide the excuse of a malfunctioning credit card machine, and you may find that you get access to better vehicles. In the central area of Athens, using Uber is usually the most convenient option for transportation. However, Uber most likely wont available on the islands, where many people choose to rent cars to get around.
Visual Clue: Look for the Light!
When hailing a taxi in Athens, keep an eye out for the illuminated taxi sign on the top of the vehicle. If it’s lit up, the cab is available. If it’s off, keep walking!
Have Your Destination Written Down
To avoid any misunderstandings, especially if your destination is obscure, have it written down in both Greek and English. This will ensure you go exactly where you want to!
How to Hail a Taxi in Greece
To hail a taxi, simply extend your arm and move it up and down as the cab approaches. This gesture is effective for getting the attention of the driver.
If you’re at an airport or a major transportation hub, there’s a good chance that airport taxi services are more regulated. Make your way to the designated taxi stand for safe and metered fares.
After a night out, it’s often easier to hail a taxi on the street rather than waiting at a taxi stand. Just remember to ensure the driver is accepting passengers; check for that glowing light!
Cheaper than Taxis: An alternative for Athens
Athens also has a reliable metro system that provides an affordable way to navigate the city.
George’s Taxi Tips for Greece
Here’s what George had to say when I asked him: Any taxi tips for dealing with Greek taxi drivers you can give from your personal experiences would be great.
Personal Taxi Tips from a Greek living in Athens
Taxi drivers in Greece are talkative, so some talk is always appreciated. I wouldn’t also go deep into politics unless you feel you can handle the situation. Talking about the islands or sports is considered a safe topic. Have always cash with you because still paying by card in taxis that you stop at the road is uncommon. Also, use a taxi app like FreeNow that will give you an idea of what you can expect to pay – and you can also use your credit card or your PayPal account.
Taxi Tips to ensure you don’t get ripped off
Well, I’d say that Google Maps is your friend. Follow the route via your smartphone to ensure the driver is not circling the city. Also, cash is king in Greece, especially in taxis. And as I mentioned earlier, a taxi app is handy to avoid excessive costs. Otherwise, prefer the taximeter that shows the exact price and not make a deal before the ride – it’s always pricier. Lastly, keep in mind that different fares occur when you get a taxi from the airport, the port, or the Central Bus Station. Taxis have to queue and wait for quite some time, so different fares apply. Usually, there’s also a surcharge per luggage.
Use Apps like a local
Uber is not available in Greece (maybe in Mykonos only) after the taxi drivers caused riots a couple of years ago. Beat was, for many years, the app-to-go for taxis, but it was bought by FreeNow, which is available in many European Countries. So, FreeNow is the app you can use.
Greek Taxi Lesson: Final Points
As your Greek taxi lesson comes to a close, you might find yourself reflecting on how much more than just transportation is wrapped up in these vibrant (often) yellow vehicles.
Each taxi ride is an opportunity to engage with the spirit of Greece — its people, culture, and stories. Whether it’s a friendly driver sharing tales of his village, an impromptu lesson in local cuisine, or even the melodic strains of bouzouki music playing softly in the background, every journey holds a slice of the Greek experience.
Navigating the city of Athens, with its ancient history juxtaposed against bustling modernity, is made all the more enriching when you can communicate effectively. The simple act of greeting your driver in Greek or handling your fare confidently transforms a mundane ride into a positive interaction. It’s a chance to bridge cultural divides, fostering connections that transcend language and geography.
Moreover, understanding the nuances of the taxi system empowers you as a traveler. You can embrace spontaneity, knowing exactly when to hail a cab or head to a taxi stand. You also gain the confidence to explore hidden gems beyond the popular tourist spots, as you chat with your driver about where to find the best local tavern or the quietest beach.
So, as you embark on your Greek adventure, remember that taxis are not just a mode of transport; they are a gateway to discovering the rich tapestry of life in Greece. Embrace the journey, savor the experiences, and let every ride unfold new stories and insights.
With these lessons in hand, you’re not just ready to catch a taxi — you’re ready to tackle Greek taxi drivers head on into the heart of Greece itself. Safe travels!
Key Greek words/phrases/sentences taught in Greek Taxi LESSON 11: 69
Total number of key Greek words/phrases/sentences from all lessons so far: 360
Here are all of the Greek language lessons on this site, if you’d like to learn more Greek.
Greek Lesson: More about the Reviewer and Teacher
Thanks again to George for reviewing and improving Greek lesson 11: TAXI Greece, TAXI Athens: How to Speak to Drivers + Tips. George is the blogger behind the travel based website Letters to Barbara, so I encourage you to check it out.
Another great way to learn more about George is to read this fantastic interview with George Pavlopoulos on Greek Gods Paradise!
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